BOULDER CITY, Nev. — Beginning December 8, 2013, the Bureau of Reclamation is lowering the water level of Lake Havasu for approximately eight weeks to repair the trash racks at Parker Dam. The drawdown will result in the lake reaching an elevation of 445 feet by mid-December 2013. The lake will remain at this level until mid-February 2014.

During the drawdown, Reclamation will repair and replace deteriorating components of the Parker Dam outer forebay trash rack structure. This structure is the first of two systems that filter debris from the lake to protect the power generation facilities at the dam. The current trash racks, original to Parker Dam, are 75 years old and deteriorated beyond repair.

While Lake Havasu is normally lowered during winter months for river management activities, seasonal fluctuations typically range from about 445.8 to 449.5 feet. The lake level will remain at about 445.0 feet until work on the trash racks is completed. However, due to unforeseen circumstances caused by operational or environmental conditions, the lake level may vary from 445.0 feet during this period.

Reclamation held a public meeting in Lake Havasu City on August 1, 2013 to answer questions about the drawdown. If you would like additional information regarding the Lake Havasu drawdown and the Parker Dam trash rack repairs, please contact the Water Operations Control Center at 702-293-8373, or BCOOWaterops@usbr.gov.

# # #

Reclamation is the largest wholesale water supplier and the second largest producer of hydroelectric power in the United States, with operations and facilities in the 17 Western States. Its facilities also provide substantial flood control, recreation, and fish and wildlife benefits. Visit our website at www.usbr.gov and follow us on Twitter @USBR.